Looking for an unforgettable honeymoon or vacation onboard a river cruise but don’t know which company to travel with? It’s likely you’ve heard of Uniworld River Cruises and AmaWaterways.
In fact, you might be wondering, which is better, AmaWaterways or Uniworld? The answer is that both cruise lines are great, but they do have differences.
Read on for a comparison of AmaWaterways vs. Uniworld, including their ships, itineraries, activities and entertainment, price range, and more, so that you can decide which river cruise line is best for you.
Uniworld Overview
First-time river cruisers may be under the assumption that river cruises aren’t as luxurious as other cruise types. However, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises more than delivers on this! With a variety of itineraries across the globe, they have a selection of amazing river cruises to choose from.
Uniworld is a worldwide company with ships departing from multiple locations and a wide variety of itineraries.
Uniworld has 17 ships in its fleet. Smaller ships, such as the Queen Isabel, hold 116 guests, while larger ships, such as the SS Catherine, hold 162 passengers. These may seem like low amounts, but it’s important to remember that river cruise ships are far smaller than regular-sized cruise ships.
Uniworld also offers a range of onboard activities, including swimming pools, leisure centers and gyms, libraries, and beautiful sun decks to lounge on. There is more than enough to keep you entertained while onboard, especially since on river cruises you typically spend much of your time at various destinations.
To truly make your vacation, Uniworld ships have a great selection of gourmet restaurants and elegant bars. Are drinks included on Uniworld? Yes! On Uniworld ships, you will enjoy a 5-star all-inclusive experience, inclusive of fine wines, premium spirits, and every meal on board, as well as onshore excursions, access to the fitness center and wellness classes, all gratuities, and airport transfers.
AmaWaterways Overview
AmaWaterways is another well-known and luxurious river cruise line, with a fleet of 26 ships. They have a larger variety of ship sizes than Uniworld, with the AmaDahlia holding 72 passengers and the AmaMagna holding 196. They offer cruises ranging from 7 to 27 days.
Much like Uniworld, AmaWaterways ships cruise a variety of riverways worldwide. They even have a specially selected handful of wine cruises, with various tours around Europe, France, and Portugal.
The onboard entertainment strives to immerse you in local culture during your trip, with live music, storytellers, and dancers who live and work in the destinations the ships travel to. This allows you to continue to enjoy local experiences even when you’re not on land.
Similarly to Uniworld, AmaWaterways has an all-inclusive dining experience, with tapas and snacks served between meals, multi-course dinners prepared right in front of you, and hand-selected red and white wines paired with each meal. Breakfast is served with fresh juices and sparkling wines so that every day starts off with a touch of luxury. Also included is their onboard wellness program, shore excursions, and WiFi.
Now that you have an idea of what Uniworld and AmaWaterways offer, let’s take a look at the similarities and differences of Uniworld vs. Ama river cruises.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Cost
As with any cruise type, the cost can vary depending on the itinerary, dates, and ship you’re on. The costs of both Uniworld and Ama river cruises are typically very similar, although Uniworld costs can be higher. Depending on the itinerary, they range from around $2000 per person to $5000 per person or more.
Both cruise lines are all-inclusive and provide excellent service, meaning that no matter which one you choose, it is guaranteed to be worth the money.
One of the best ways of securing a better deal, however, is by booking via a cruise travel agent. Travel agents specializing in river cruises are usually able to offer great discounts and deals that are unavailable to the general public. You can also check the cruise line’s website for special offers and discounts.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Ships
Uniworld’s fleet consists of 17 ships, most of which are quite similar in size. With river cruise ships being so small, there isn’t much space for onboard activities, but they certainly offer enough to keep you entertained while you’re on the water.
AmaWaterways has a larger fleet than Uniworld, with a larger variety of sizes as well. This allows for more choice, enabling you to find just the right cruise and ship for you.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Staterooms
When it comes to accommodations onboard, many believe that Uniworld has the upper hand. Of course, the cabins vary from ship to ship, but Uniworld’s cabins are quite unique.
Uniworld has a broad range of staterooms offering a luxurious, high-end designer feel and one-of-a-kind interiors. You’ll feel pampered, whether you’re in a grand suite or classic cabin.
On board AmaWaterways, you will find cabins with a classy, sleek look and contemporary design.
No matter which company or type of cabin you choose, however, you’re sure to enter a world of luxury as soon as you step on board.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Itineraries
The itineraries are what truly make the experience of a river cruise. Both Uniworld and AmaWaterways offer a wide variety of amazing itineraries in fascinating places. While they both cruise throughout Europe, each company has some different routes.
Uniworld also does river cruises in Asia, Egypt, India, and Peru. AmaWaterways offers itineraries in Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, Africa, and Colombia.
Both lines also offer specialized cruises. AmaWaterways has safari cruises in Africa, wine cruises in Europe, and cruises with focuses like golf, ancestry, classical music, and more. Uniworld has family cruises, floating art workshops, heritage cruises, mystery cruises, among others.
Both AmaWaterways and Uniworld offer Christmas cruises of the markets in Europe.
For honeymoons or romantic getaways, Uniworld has some adult-only cruises, making it a great choice for a relaxing and romantic trip.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Activities
River cruises, unlike regular cruises, are not necessarily known for onboard activities. These ships don’t spend days at sea; rather, they are utilized as a luxurious experience between destinations.
That said, both Uniworld and AmaWaterways have wellness centers, swimming pools, sun decks, and lounges in which you can sit comfortably with a good book or enjoy a drink and a chat with fellow guests.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Food and Drink
Both cruise lines offer a variety of dining options and menus that reflect the cuisine of the destination countries. All meals are included in your fare. Uniworld offers unlimited premium spirits and wines, and AmaWaterways includes all drinks with meals plus a daily cocktail hour.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Entertainment
When it comes to entertainment onboard, AmaWaterways seems to perform a little better.
Uniworld tends to put more focus on guided tours and daytime entertainment at various destinations.
On board AmaWaterways, however, you will find their in-house pianist and a variety of unique performances and shows throughout your trip. Shows include acts from various destinations on the itinerary and help bring the cultural experience enjoyed through the day on board for the evening. You can enjoy traditional dance performances, authentic musical performances, and even local storytelling.
That said, no matter which cruise line you choose to travel with, it’s safe to say you’ll never be bored!
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Typical Passengers
The clientele of a cruise can vary widely depending on the cruise line, and even the itinerary, but both Uniworld and AmaWaterways tend to attract similar guests.
The only slight difference is that with AmaWaterways placing emphasis on their excellent onboard evening entertainment and unlimited premium spirits, it makes a better choice for those who like to enjoy the nightlife onboard the ships.
As Uniworld places emphasis on its guided tours, this cruise line is the more popular choice for those who like to stay active and explore.
Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways for Kids
Both cruise lines welcome children onboard (with some limitations). That said, neither cruise line is actually geared toward families, so if your children are always looking for something new to do, you may want to consider alternative options.
If they’re able to keep themselves entertained, enjoy traveling and seeing the sights, and are happy with a good dip in the onboard pool, then both AmaWaterways and Uniworld are excellent choices. Also, both lines offer specific family cruises throughout the year that include additional activities for kids, so this may be something to check into.
If you’re looking to travel without children, Uniworld has a selection of adults-only cruises, so you can comfortably enjoy a romantic getaway or honeymoon.
When comparing Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways, it’s hard to decide which is better. Both offer exceptional dining, great entertainment and activities, and a luxurious experience. Ultimately though, it really comes down to what appeals to you and where you want to travel.
We recommend AmaWaterways for families and young adults. For other couples, either cruise line would be great depending on what you are looking for.
If you’re looking for honeymoon cruise options, you may want to check out our article 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises and Cruise Lines. If you’re not sure about a river cruise and want to investigate ocean cruise lines, you might be interested in these articles: Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian, Carnival Cruise vs Royal Caribbean, Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity, Are Viking Cruises Adults Only, and Royal Caribbean vs. Princess.
Have you cruised with Uniworld or AmaWaterways? Let us know your experience in the comment section below!
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.